Unsure if Bali is right for you due to its recent surge in tourism?
Let me introduce you to my top ten must-see spots on the island, all of which highlight the top places to visit in Bali. With this guide, you’ll discover the island’s best locations and activities, ensuring your trip is nothing short of extraordinary. To make the most of these stunning destinations, you’ll need to wake up at dawn. However, trust me, the early start will reward you with unforgettable experiences!
10. Pura Luhur Temple, Uluwatu: A Cliffside Marvel in the Top Places to Visit in Bali
This temple is well-known and highly popular, and it’s easy to see why. Nowhere else will you find a temple perched on a cliff offering such breathtaking ocean views. The magical and captivating atmosphere here is truly unique. However, it’s often crowded, so arriving early is essential. For this reason, it ranks tenth in my guide to the top places to visit in Bali.
9. Experience a Balinese Massage: A Relaxing Must-Do
Whether you’re a massage enthusiast or just curious, you simply can’t leave the island without experiencing a Balinese massage. In fact, Ubud is the ideal place to indulge in this soothing activity. Prices typically range from 50,000 IDR to 150,000 IDR (approximately £3 to £10) for an hour, and don’t forget—you can usually haggle for a better deal! Trust me, the experience is both invigorating and deeply relaxing, making it the perfect way to unwind after a long day of exploring the top places to visit in Bali.
8. Nyang Nyang Beach, Uluwatu: A Hidden Gem Among the Top Places to Visit in Bali
My favourite beach in the south of Bali!
From the cliffs, you can soak in a truly heavenly ocean view that feels like a dream. As you descend for about 20 minutes, you’ll discover Nyang Nyang Beach, a tranquil paradise far removed from the busy tourist spots. However, keep in mind that the climb back up is quite challenging. Even so, the serene beauty and peaceful atmosphere make the effort absolutely worthwhile!
7. Leke Leke Waterfall: A Secluded Oasis in the Top Places to Visit in Bali
We visited this stunning waterfall at noon (in 2018), and surprisingly, we had the place entirely to ourselves for about an hour before anyone else arrived. Moreover, the walk to the waterfall is both pleasant and easy, which makes it a perfect stop to include during an excursion in the north of the island.
6. Kecak Dance in Ubud: A Cultural Extravaganza
I’ve seen many Balinese dances, but, without a doubt, the Kecak performance in Ubud remains my favorite. Additionally, the seating provided an excellent view of the stage, which made it a truly special and unique experience. For a better overall atmosphere, I highly recommend choosing the Ubud performance over those in Uluwatu.
The vast Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, a UNESCO site and one of the top places to visit in Bali
We stayed at Hati Padi Cottage and truly enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere of Kelusa. Furthermore, it’s the perfect spot to wander through the rice paddies without encountering any tourists. Additionally, since it’s not far from Tegalalang Rice Terrace, making a visit here is undoubtedly worth your time.
4. Jatiluwih Rice Terraces: A Majestic Landscape
If you’re up for a long walk through the rice paddies, this is definitely the place to be! However, be mindful of the heat if you choose to explore in the afternoon. Additionally, I was amazed by the vastness of the terraces and the stunning landscape throughout the journey. Finally, our walk ended with a breathtaking coffee tasting experience overlooking the scenery, making the adventure even more memorable.
3. Amed: an underwater paradise in the top places to visit in Bali.
On my third visit to Bali, I ventured into the northeast of the island and absolutely fell in love with Amed! The vibe here feels distinctly different, offering a serene escape from the busier areas. Additionally, the snorkeling spots are stunning, and the views of the volcano are absolutely breathtaking. Lastly, don’t miss the famous black sand beaches—visiting them is a must at least once in your lifetime!
2. Pura Ulun Danu Bratan Temple, Tamblingan: Sunrise Serenity at One of the Top Places to Visit in Bali
The journey from Ubud was long, and waking up at 4 AM felt challenging. However, arriving at sunrise was incredibly rewarding, offering magnificent views that made the early start worthwhile. Additionally, visiting at the right time means you’ll find the temple beautifully surrounded by water, creating a stunning mirror effect for photos. Best of all, arriving early ensures no tourists or long queues, making the experience even more magical!
1. Besakih Temple: The Mother Temple of Bali
This experience was undoubtedly the highlight among my trips to the island. While it was quite busy, and the guide shared only minimal information, the site itself was absolutely stunning. Additionally, when the weather is clear, you’ll witness the breathtaking sight of the volcano emerging majestically behind the iconic Balinese gates, making the visit truly unforgettable.
As I wrap up my guide to the top places to visit in Bali, I hope you feel inspired to visit these incredible spots. From the serene beaches of Nyang Nyang to the cultural richness of Ubud, Bali offers a treasure trove of experiences.
Have you visited any of these places? Connect with me on Instagram @the_freedom_traveler to share your stories. I’d love to hear about your adventures on this enchanting island!
Explore More Destinations Across Asia
If Bali has inspired your wanderlust, why not explore more of this vibrant continent? Asia is filled with incredible destinations waiting to be discovered, from Japan’s serene temples to the Philippines’ turquoise beaches. Head over to my Asia travel category for detailed guides, travel tips, and itineraries that will help you plan your next adventure. Let’s uncover the magic of Asia together!
